If you’re into oysters (and honestly, who isn’t at least a little curious?), Charleston’s got you covered. The city’s packed with spots serving up fresh, briny shellfish—some classic, some a bit more inventive. It’s the kind of scene that draws in both locals and visitors, especially when the oysters are local and in season.
The best oysters in Charleston come from a mix of traditional and innovative oyster bars and raw bars located throughout the city. These places put freshness first, often highlighting what’s pulled from nearby waters. Whether you like your oysters bare and cold or loaded up with some wild toppings, you’ll find something.
1) Hyman’s Seafood
Hyman’s Seafood has been a Charleston staple since 1890. Tucked into a handful of old buildings, it’s got that classic-meets-casual vibe—part deli, part restaurant.
People rave about the oysters here, and yeah, the bar area’s a pretty solid spot for a drink and a snack. It’s open every day, usually from late morning till evening, and stays busy.
They’ve got a newsletter with special deals, and if you’re the type who likes freebies, signing up can snag you a birthday or anniversary meal.
Location: 215 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401
2) 167 Raw Oyster Bar
167 Raw Oyster Bar brings a bit of New England to downtown Charleston. It’s a cozy, easygoing spot with fresh oysters, lobster rolls, and fish tacos—and a patio if you want to eat outside.
They’re open Monday through Saturday, 11 AM to 11 PM. No reservations, so you’ll probably have to wait (but hey, that’s usually a good sign).
They also do event catering with custom menus and raw bars for parties or corporate stuff. Worth asking about if you’re planning something.
Location: 193 King St, Charleston, SC 29401
3) The Darling Oyster Bar
The Darling Oyster Bar’s got a vintage look and a menu that’s all about creative seafood dishes, especially oysters. Fry baskets, raw oysters, and other fun options keep things interesting.
They’ll even bring their raw bar out to you for events—oyster roasts, Lowcountry boils, whatever you’ve got going on.
The place feels laid-back but still has style. It’s definitely a favorite for both locals and tourists looking for something fresh and simple.
Location: 513 King St, Charleston, SC 29403
4) Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar
Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar leans into classic Southern seafood—think oysters and crab soup—served up in a sleek spot with a waterfront patio. Not a bad place to watch the boats and dig into something local.
It’s right in Historic Downtown, near the City Market. Lunch runs from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., dinner from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., and they keep the bar open in between.
Reservations are smart, especially on weekends. They can seat groups up to 10, and there’s parking close by (street or garage).
Location: 186 Concord St, Charleston, SC 29401
5) The Ordinary
The Ordinary is set inside a 1920s bank, which is kind of wild—big windows, high ceilings, and a vibe that feels both open and a little fancy.
Oysters are the main event, but the rest of the menu’s worth a look too. They focus on local flavors and classic prep, so it’s a solid pick for oyster lovers.
Dinner only, Monday through Sunday, but closed Tuesdays. Sometimes they shut down for private events, so it’s not a bad idea to check first.
Location: 544 King St, Charleston, SC 29403
6) Magnolias
Magnolias has been part of Charleston’s Southern cuisine scene since 1990. They do Southern classics with a modern twist—think familiar flavors, but with some surprises.
Chef Don Drake brings a bit of international flair, but the food still feels true to Lowcountry roots. You’ll get Southern staples, seafood, and a few dishes you probably haven’t seen elsewhere.
Set in a historic old Customs House, Magnolias feels warm and elegant. There’s private dining upstairs for special occasions, and they’re open for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch.
Location: 185 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401
7) Pearlz Oyster Bar
Pearlz Oyster Bar is all about fresh seafood and a huge oyster selection—Lowcountry, Gulf, you name it. The menu leans on local recipes and regional favorites.
The raw bar’s the real draw, with specialty oysters for die-hard fans. It’s lively, with a full-service bar, cold beers, and some cocktails you probably won’t find elsewhere.
The place is light and relaxed, with outdoor seating when the weather’s right. It’s a good spot for classic seafood, raw bites, or even just a burger if that’s your thing.
Location: 153 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401
8) Oyster House Seafood & O-Bar
Oyster House Seafood & O-Bar is a casual, industrial-style spot for oysters in Charleston. The raw bar’s front and center, and the oysters are always shucked fresh.
You’ll find a bunch of seafood dishes and craft cocktails on the menu. Indoor and patio seating keep things chill, and the focus is really on simple, well-prepared seafood.
It’s easy to find downtown and tends to draw a crowd, especially folks looking for a lively hangout with good oysters and drinks.
Location: 35 S Market St, Charleston, SC 2940
9) Amen Street Fish & Raw Bar
Amen Street Fish & Raw Bar sits right in the historic district, close to the market and harbor. Brick walls, a cozy feel, and a lively crowd make it a fun spot.
Fresh seafood’s the thing here, especially the raw oysters—people mention them a lot. Reservations are a good idea, especially if you’re eyeing happy hour. The menu covers a lot of ground, with a focus on quality and sustainability.
Service gets high marks, and the bar area’s got a solid drink list to go with your seafood. If you’re in the mood for oysters and a good time, Amen Street’s a safe bet.
Location: 205 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401
10) Delaney Oyster House
Delaney Oyster House is tucked inside a historic Charleston home right on Calhoun Street. It’s got that classic oyster house vibe, but with a little more polish—think premium seafood, fresh oysters, and a setting that feels both Lowcountry and cozy.
There’s a raw bar, of course, and a full menu that leans into local seafood flavors. Dinner’s served nightly, and brunch brings folks in on weekends. If you love a good deal, happy hour runs Monday through Thursday with specials on drinks and oysters (and who doesn’t love that?).
The drinks are worth a mention too—craft beers, some pretty creative cocktails, and a wine list that nods to coastal regions. The team here seems to really care about blending old-school oyster house traditions with a few modern twists, all in the heart of downtown.
Location: 115 Calhoun St, Charleston, SC 29401
What Makes Charleston’s Oysters Unique
Charleston oysters really do have a character of their own. It’s not just the local types—it’s the way they’re raised, too. The salty estuaries around here shape their flavor, and harvesters pay a lot of attention to keeping the ecosystem healthy. There’s something about the mix of care and the local water that just makes them stand out.
Local Oyster Varieties
You’ll notice Charleston oysters look a bit different—longer, narrower shells compared to the rounder Gulf Coast ones. That’s thanks to the specific estuaries they grow in, where the tides bring in more salt and give the oysters their signature brininess.
They grow in a blend of fresh and saltwater, which affects not just their shape, but also their taste and size. People often say the flavor balances sweet and salty, with a super clean finish. Small details, maybe, but they add up if you’re a seafood fan.
Harvesting Methods and Sustainability
Oyster farms around Charleston are pretty committed to eco-friendly practices. They skip the harsh chemicals and focus on letting oyster beds renew naturally. It’s all about keeping the waterways in good shape.
Places like Lowcountry Oyster Company and Charleston Oyster Farm keep a close eye on their oysters, only harvesting when they’re ready and making sure the water stays clean. This kind of sustainable approach means there’ll be plenty of oysters—hopefully—for years to come.
How to Enjoy Oysters in Charleston
Oysters here can be as simple as you want, or dressed up with all kinds of toppings. Some folks swear by just a squeeze of lemon, while others love them loaded with sauces or even baked. And don’t forget the drinks—there’s a lot of debate over the best pairings.
Traditional Preparations
Raw on the half shell is the classic way—freshly shucked, maybe with a wedge of lemon, cocktail sauce, or a tangy mignonette (that’s the vinegar, shallot, and pepper combo). It’s all about letting the oyster shine.
Grilled or baked oysters are big, too. They might come with garlic butter, herbs, or a sprinkle of cheese. When they’re warm, the flavors shift a bit, but that sea taste sticks around.
Pairing Oysters with Beverages
A crisp white wine—Sauvignon Blanc or Chablis, for example—pairs really well, cutting through the saltiness. Champagne or sparkling wine works for the same reason; the bubbles sort of reset your palate.
Some people go for light, citrusy beers like a pilsner or pale ale, which don’t overpower the oysters. And if you’re skipping alcohol, iced green tea or sparkling water with lemon is surprisingly good alongside oysters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Charleston’s got plenty of great places for oysters—some focus on raw bars, others on local specialties, and a few offer happy hour deals that are hard to beat. You’ll find spots with water views, and a couple that serve up oysters by the bushel for a crowd.
Where can I find the best raw oysters in downtown Charleston?
The Darling Oyster Bar is a go-to for raw oysters downtown. It’s lively, modern, and the oysters are always fresh.
Which Charleston oyster bar offers the most diverse selection of oysters?
167 Raw Oyster Bar tends to have a big variety, local and seasonal included. If you want to try different kinds, this is your spot.
Are there any oyster bars in Charleston that serve bushels of oysters?
Hyman’s Seafood and Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar both offer bushels—great if you’re with a group or just really hungry.
Can you recommend a place for oysters with a great happy hour in Charleston?
The Ordinary does a solid happy hour with oysters at a discount. Good drinks, good prices—what more do you need?
What are some top-rated oyster houses in Charleston with a view?
Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar is tough to beat for a view. You get oysters and a look out over Charleston Harbor at the same time.
Which Charleston restaurants are known for their local oyster dishes?
If you’re after Charleston oysters, Hyman’s Seafood and The Ordinary both come up a lot. They put a real focus on local oysters—sometimes classic, sometimes with a twist. Honestly, you’ll probably find a few unexpected flavors here and there, but that’s half the fun, right?
